Srinagar June 05: The Department of English University of Kashmir (KU), commenced a two-day international conference on “Climate Action, Sustainability and Literature: The Ecosophical Proximity in the Contemporary Anthropocentric Epoch” in collaboration with the Ecosophical Foundation for the Study of Literature and Environment at the Main Campus. The conference aims to examine the intersections of literature, environmental thought and sustainability, while promoting interdisciplinary dialogue on climate change, ecological responsibility and the role of the humanities in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of academic engagement with pressing ecological concerns. “Climate change is no longer a distant possibility but a lived reality. Universities have a responsibility to encourage critical reflection and generate knowledge that contributes to environmental awareness, sustainable practices and informed public discourse,” she said. She added that literature and the humanities offer valuable perspectives for understanding the human dimensions of environmental crises and can play a meaningful role in shaping ecological consciousness. Vice-Chancellor, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, in his address, highlighted the need for integrating scientific understanding with policy interventions and governance frameworks to address the challenges posed by climate change. He emphasized that sustainable development requires coordinated efforts involving academia, policymakers, communities and institutions working towards long-term environmental resilience. Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary research and academic collaborations in advancing discussions on sustainability and environmental stewardship. President, EFSLE, Dr. Rishikesh Kumar, spoke about the growing relevance of ecosophical approaches in literary and cultural studies. Earlier, in his welcome address, Head, Department of English KU, Prof. Mufti Mudasir Farooqi, outlined the objectives of the conference and said the event seeks to create a platform for scholars, researchers and practitioners to deliberate on contemporary ecological issues through literary, cultural and interdisciplinary perspectives. The two-day conference includes a keynote lecture by Prof. Diana J. Fox, Department of Anthropology, Bridgewater State University USA, plenary talks, technical sessions and paper presentations by scholars and researchers from India and abroad, focusing on climate action, sustainability, environmental humanities, ecocriticism and related themes. The proceedings of the inaugural session were conducted by Prof. Iffat Maqbool, faculty, Department of English KU.

Srinagar, June 4: The Directorate of Information Technology & Support Systems (IT&SS), University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), organized a One-Day Awareness Programme on Digital Signature and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) at the University of Kashmir. The programme witnessed participation from officers of the Jammu & Kashmir Police, CID, NIELIT, SKUAST, Industry experts, Faculty members, Students, Research scholars, and officials of the University of Kashmir, reflecting the growing importance of secure digital practices across sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Maroof Qadri, Director IT&SS, highlighted the critical role of Digital Signatures and Public Key Infrastructure in strengthening digital governance, cybersecurity, and trusted electronic transactions. Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Kashmir, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasized the need for awareness and capacity building in cybersecurity and secure digital technologies. The technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Mohammed Misbahuddin, Scientist-F, C-DAC Bengaluru; Dr. Balaji Rajendran, Associate Director, C-DAC Bengaluru; and Mr. Shamsuddin Khan, Assistant Controller (Technology), Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), MeitY, Government of India. The experts deliberated on Digital Signatures, Public Key Infrastructure, electronic authentication, digital trust, and secure digital communications. The programme provided a valuable platform for participants to enhance their understanding of technologies that form the foundation of trust, security, and authenticity in the digital ecosystem.

Srinagar June 02: A first-of-its-kind three-day Advanced School of Antenna (ASA) 2026 concluded at the University of Kashmir (KU). The programme was organised by KU in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, IEEE AP-S/CRFID Delhi Chapter and IEEE AP-S/MTT-S, Kolkata Chapter, on the theme “Antennas in Biomedical and Biotelemetry Devices.” The three-day programme aimed to promote knowledge exchange and advance research at the intersection of antenna engineering and healthcare technologies by bringing together leading experts, researchers, faculty members and students from across the country. Speaking at the valedictory session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, congratulated the organisers for bringing the prestigious international programme to the University and highlighted the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing contemporary healthcare and technological challenges. "ASA 2026 provided an excellent platform for researchers, faculty members and students to engage with leading experts and emerging innovations in antenna technologies and biomedical applications," she said. Dean, School of Engineering KU, Prof. Mohammad Tariq Banday, and Incharge Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Roohie Naaz, emphasized the importance of collaborative research and academic partnerships in advancing emerging technologies and fostering innovation-driven learning. Head, Department of Electronics & Instrumentation Technology, KU, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Khanday, said that the event created valuable opportunities for participants to interact with internationally renowned experts and gain insights into contemporary developments in antenna design and biomedical applications. Prof. Omar Ramahi, University of Waterloo, Canada, and Prof. Mahesh Abegaonkar, IIT Delhi and Chairman, IEEE AP-S Delhi Chapter, spoke on the recent advances in antenna technologies and stressed on the need for sustained research efforts to address emerging challenges in biomedical and wireless communication systems. Earlier, in his welcome address, Organising Secretary Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh, faculty at the Department of Electronics & Instrumentation Technology, KU, outlined the objectives of the programme and highlighted its focus on bridging fundamental research with real-world healthcare applications. The three-day programme featured keynote lectures, technical sessions and expert discussions on various dimensions of antenna engineering, biomedical devices, biotelemetry systems and emerging wireless technologies. The proceedings of the valedictory session were conducted by Organising Secretary Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh. Earlier the inaugural session, held at the Ibn-e-Khaldun Auditorium, was attended by Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada; Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal; Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar; Prof. Omar Ramahi, University of Waterloo, Canada; Prof. Mahesh Abegaonkar, Chairman, IEEE AP-S Delhi Chapter; Dean, School of Engineering KU, Prof. Mohammad Tariq Banday; besides heads of departments, faculty members, researchers and students from KU and NIT Srinagar.

Srinagar, June 1: Doon School Srinagar has been honoured with the prestigious Best School Award at the Zee Media Conclave, held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar. The award was presented by the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, in recognition of the school's outstanding performance and excellence across various educational parameters. The award was received by Chairman Showkat Khan, Vice Chairman Sayan Khan, and Principal A. Kamili on behalf of the institution. Doon School Srinagar was rated among the top educational institutions for its academic excellence, co-curricular achievements, infrastructure, and overall contribution to quality education in the Valley. Over the past few years, the school has hosted several distinguished personalities, including former Sri Lankan cricket captain Sanath Jayasuriya, renowned Australian cricket coach and legend Dav Whatmore, and Bollywood actor Shakti Kapoor. These visits have provided valuable exposure and inspiration to students. The school's students have also actively participated in debates, sports competitions, and various extracurricular activities at regional and national levels, bringing laurels to the institution. Widely regarded as a reputed and credible educational institution, Doon School Srinagar has established itself as a centre of academic excellence. The management also said that the school currently has no branch elsewhere in Jammu and Kashmir. Parents, students, educationists, and residents of Srinagar have congratulated Chairman Showkat Khan and the entire Doon School fraternity for this remarkable achievement and their significant contribution to the field of education.

Gulmarg, May 31: The third edition of the global alumni reunion, SANGAM-3.0, concluded at Gulmarg on Sunday with a special networking and interaction session, bringing to a close three days of celebrations, discussions and renewed engagement between alumni and their alma mater. The event was organised by the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar in collaboration with the Alumni Association, REC/NIT Srinagar. The concluding session at the Golf Club Gulmarg witnessed enthusiastic participation from distinguished alumni, faculty members, administrators, and guests from across the country. The event was hosted by alumnus and MLA Gulmarg Er Farooq Ahmad Shah, who welcomed the alumni fraternity and appreciated NIT Srinagar's efforts to reconnect generations of graduates through a vibrant alumni platform. Among those present were Babu Lal Juneja, Chairman, SKD University Rajasthan; Ashwani Kumar, Rajasthan; Social activist Tasneem Akhter; Nouman Ajaz Wawa, Director, TRM Institute; Er. Ambreena Anjum, Superintendent Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, CEO Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) Tariq Hussain Naik (JKAS), and G.N. Var founding President, Private Schools Association J&K. Addressing the gathering, MLA Gulmarg, Farooq Ahmad Shah described NIT Srinagar as one of Northern India's premier technical institutions that has produced generations of engineers, scientists, administrators, entrepreneurs and innovators who have made significant contributions to nation-building. Calling SANGAM-3.0 more than an alumni reunion, MLA Shah said it was a celebration of shared experiences, lifelong friendships and collective commitment towards institutional growth. "The values and relationships built during our days at REC Srinagar played a defining role in shaping our professional journeys," he said. He urged alumni to deepen their engagement with the institute through mentorship programmes, scholarships, research collaborations, industry partnerships and career opportunities for students. MLA Gulmarg also encouraged successful alumni and entrepreneurs to invest in higher education, skill development, and innovation initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir to generate employment and strengthen the region's human resource base. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said the successful conclusion of SANGAM-3.0 reflected the strength of the institute's global alumni network. "Our alumni are our greatest ambassadors. The overwhelming response witnessed during the last three days demonstrates the enduring bond that graduates continue to share with the institute. Their mentorship, expertise and support remain invaluable for the growth of NIT Srinagar," he said. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman described SANGAM-3.0 as a landmark initiative aimed at building a sustainable and active alumni ecosystem. "The reunion provided an excellent platform for alumni from different generations to reconnect, exchange ideas and contribute to the institute's future growth. We witnessed meaningful interactions, academic discussions and several collaborative proposals during the programme," he said. President of the Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er. Malay Chatterjee said the event had further strengthened ties between alumni and the institute. "The alumni community remains committed to supporting the institute through student mentoring, industry linkages, innovation support and creating opportunities for young graduates. SANGAM-3.0 has opened new avenues for meaningful engagement," he said. Dean Alumni and International Affairs Prof. M.A. Shah said the reunion successfully reconnected alumni with their departments, faculty members and fellow graduates while inspiring students through interactions with accomplished professionals and administrators. "Several alumni have expressed their willingness to support the institute in internships, placements, entrepreneurship, innovation, research collaborations and student mentoring. Such partnerships will significantly benefit both the institution and its students," he said. Speaking on the occasion, G.N. Var lauded NIT Srinagar for nurturing a strong alumni culture and creating a platform that promotes knowledge-sharing, collaboration and institutional development. During the Gulmarg session, alumni shared memories of their student life at REC/NIT Srinagar and appreciated the institute's transformation in academics, infrastructure, research and innovation over the years. Several participants emphasized the need for sustained collaboration between the institute and its graduates to strengthen academic excellence, industry linkages and global outreach initiatives. The organising team included Alumni Association office-bearers: Vice President Er. Sayed Parvez Qalandar, General Secretary Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai, Secretary, Dr. Fayaz Ahmad Sofi, Additional Secretaries, Er. Muzaffar Ahmad Beigh, Er. Irfan Shafi Parray and Er. Farhan Manzoor, Joint Secretaries Dr. Sajad Hussain Din, Er. Toyiba, Dr. Mohd Hanief Dar, and Treasurer Dr. Sajad Ahmad Mir. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Associate Dean Alumni and International Affairs Dr. H.S. Pali, who expressed gratitude to the Director, Registrar, Dean Alumni and International Affairs, distinguished alumni, faculty members, coordinators, volunteers, student teams and participants for contributing to the success of SANGAM-3.0. Dr. Pali also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Vijay Kumar, Dr. Dinesh Rajendran, Dr. Iqra, Dr. Sumaria Jan, Anchor Sana Showkat, the technical and photography teams, volunteers, supporting staff, and members of the Alumni Association for their dedication throughout the three-day event.

New Delhi, May 31: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Sunday said it had contained identified cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the OnMark digital assessment portal used by its service provider. In a post on X, CBSE said it had deployed a multi-agency team of experts to strengthen the system following public reports flagging potential security weaknesses.  CBSE said it was "closely monitoring" vulnerabilities reported in the portal and that cybersecurity professionals drawn from various government agencies and Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) had been working over the past several days to fortify the platform. "The identified vulnerabilities have been contained, and other exploitable weaknesses are being ruled out," CBSE said. CBSE said that efforts were also underway to migrate the system to a more secure environment. The board thanked citizens and ethical hackers who had reported the flaws and said it had contacted some of them directly. CBSE also invited others with relevant information to share inputs with its security teams. The development comes amid growing scrutiny of digital infrastructure used in India's high-stakes public examination system. The OnMark platform is associated with the digital evaluation and assessment process for CBSE examinations, making any security lapse a matter of concern given the sensitivity of student-related academic records and examination data. The disclosure follows reports on social media and cybersecurity forums alleging weaknesses in the portal that could potentially expose sensitive information or allow unauthorized access if left unaddressed. CBSE however did not specify the nature of the vulnerabilities, whether any data had been compromised, or whether there had been any successful breaches. The board has not announced any disruption to ongoing examination or assessment-related activities and has indicated that investigations and security reviews remain underway.

Srinagar, May 30: J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday extended his greetings as the two-day global alumni reunion SANGAM-3.0 commenced at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar. He expressed confidence that the initiative would promote innovation, mentorship, collaboration and knowledge-sharing while contributing to the academic and professional growth of the institution and the region. The event was organised by the Office of Dean Alumni and International Affairs in collaboration with the Alumni Association of REC-NIT Srinagar. The event aims to strengthen alumni engagement, foster academic and professional collaboration, and reconnect former students with their alma mater. The inaugural ceremony was held at the Common Hall of the institute and commenced with the National Anthem, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and formal welcome of alumni, guests, and dignitaries. On the occasion, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, conveyed his greetings and best wishes to the organisers and participants. In his message, he lauded NIT Srinagar for fostering a strong alumni network and providing a platform that reconnects generations of graduates. He expressed confidence that SANGAM-3.0 would strengthen collaboration, innovation, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, while contributing to the academic and professional growth of the institution and the region. Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. B K Kanaujia, while addressing the gathering, said that SANGAM-3.0 represents the Institute’s vision of building stronger bridges with its alumni community across the globe. “Our alumni are the pride and strength of this institution. SANGAM is a celebration of our collective achievements, shared memories and future aspirations. The success stories of our alumni continue to inspire students and contribute immensely towards the growth and reputation of NIT Srinagar at national and international levels,” he said. Prof Kanaujia said that Institute is actively working towards enhancing research collaborations, innovation ecosystems and industry-academia partnerships with the support and guidance of its alumni network. Institute Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said that the alumni meet provides an important platform for meaningful interaction between alumni, faculty members, and students. “The institute deeply values the emotional connection and continued support of its alumni. Such events help in strengthening institutional identity and creating opportunities for mentorship, networking and collaborative initiatives,” he said. Dean Alumni and International Affairs, Prof M A Shah, said the overwhelming response to SANGAM-3.0 reflects the strong bond alumni continue to share with the institute despite being spread across different parts of the world. “We are witnessing participation from alumni belonging to different batches and professions. The event has been designed not only as a reunion but also as a platform to promote innovation, academic collaboration, entrepreneurship, and student mentorship,” he said. “SANGAM is not just an event but a long-term movement aimed at reconnecting generations of alumni with the institute and encouraging them to contribute towards academic excellence, research, innovation and institutional growth,” Prof. Shah said. President Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er Malay Chatterjee, described the alumni community as the “torch bearers” of the institution and urged graduates to remain connected with their alma mater through academic, professional and philanthropic contributions. Guest of Honor, MLA Surankote and distinguished alumnus, Er. Chaudhary Muhammad Ikram, MLA Surankote  termed the alumni meet a bridge between the government and the alma mater and appreciated the institute for reconnecting generations of alumni through SANGAM-3.0. Vice President of Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er Sayed Parvez Qalandar, while addressing the gathering, stressed the importance of maintaining strong alumni-institute relations and called upon former students to actively contribute towards mentoring and supporting young graduates. Chairman Bureau of Public Enterprises, J&K Government, Er Talat Parvaz (IAS), also addressed the gathering and highlighted the growing role of technical institutions in shaping future leadership, governance and innovation. The institute also felicitated silver, golden, and diamond jubilee batches along with ten distinguished alumni for their outstanding contributions in academics, administration, engineering, entrepreneurship and public service. Earlier Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai, General Secretary of the Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, delivered the Welcome address and warmly welcomed the guests, alumni, faculty members, and participants. He highlighted the importance of staying connected with the alma mater and strengthening the bond among alumni of NIT Srinagar. A major highlight of the inaugural session was the release of “Bridges & Beacons: A Chronicle of NIT Srinagar,” a publication documenting the Institute’s journey, milestones, achievements and contributions over the decades. During the programme, the Member-Secretary of the Alumni Association Election Commission presented an exclusive report regarding the elected members of the Alumni Association and highlighted the role of alumni in strengthening the institute’s outreach and development initiatives. Later, alumni shared their professional experiences and success stories during the “Voices of Experience” session, inspiring students and young graduates with valuable insights from diverse fields. Associate Dean Alumni and International Affairs Dr H S Pali presented the vote of thanks and appreciated the efforts of organisers, faculty members, volunteers, alumni and participants for making the event successful. In the afternoon session, alumni participated in the “Alumni Back to Classroom (ABC)” programme, and the overall event was coordinated by Dr Dinesh Kr. Rajendran. The alumni interacted with students in various departments and shared professional experiences, industry insights, and career guidance. Alumnus also visited the library, workshop, CRF, WRC, laboratories, and research centres of the institute to witness recent academic and infrastructural advancements achieved by NIT Srinagar. The first day of SANGAM-3.0 concluded with a cultural programme featuring performances by students and alumni at the Common Hall.

Srinagar, May 30: Hundreds of candidates appearing for the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET-UG) 2026 faced disruption on Saturday after a technical glitch at several examination centres delayed the commencement of the first shift, prompting the National Testing Agency (NTA) to order an investigation and announce a special re-examination for affected students. In an official statement, the NTA said the technical issue, reported by its service provider TCS iON, affected the start of Shift-I examinations at some centres across the country. While the problem was later resolved and the examination resumed with compensatory time, the disruption caused inconvenience and uncertainty for candidates and their families. According to the agency, nearly 95 per cent of candidates were able to complete their examination after services were restored. However, 3,765 candidates who had reported to their centres, completed biometric registration and were present for the examination chose to leave before the test could restart. The NTA said these candidates would be given a fresh opportunity to take the examination through a one-time rescheduled test. The date and other details of the special examination will be announced separately on the official CUET website. "The technical service provider, TCS iON, has been directed to conduct a root-cause analysis and submit its report immediately," the agency said, adding that no candidate who remained at the centre would be disadvantaged as full compensatory time was provided. The agency further revised the schedule for the afternoon session, postponing the commencement of the examination by one hour. Candidates were asked to report at 2.30 pm, while the examination began at 4 pm instead of the originally scheduled 3 pm. NTA expressed regret over the disruption, stating that it understood the distress caused to students and parents. It reiterated that candidates who were present at their centres on May 30, completed biometric verification but could not complete the examination due to the technical failure would be accommodated through the rescheduled test. The incident comes weeks before the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026, scheduled for June 21. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that the Delhi Government would provide free travel in all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses for NEET-UG 2026 candidates on examination day upon presentation of a valid admit card. "No student should face inconvenience on a day that holds such importance for their future," the Chief Minister said in a post on X and extended her best wishes to aspirants appearing for the medical entrance examination.

Srinagar, May 30: The Supreme Court has dismissed a batch of review petitions challenging its earlier verdict making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers, but granted additional time till August 31, 2028 for acquiring the qualification. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan upheld its earlier judgment in Anjuman Ishaat-e-Taleem Trust vs State of Maharashtra, ruling that qualifying the TET was a mandatory eligibility condition for continuation in service as well as for promotions. However, taking note of practical difficulties faced by thousands of teachers across the country, the apex court extended the compliance period from two years to three years by exercising powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. “The qualification has to be obtained by 31st August, 2028 instead of 31st August, 2027, as originally directed,” the court said. The judgment came while deciding a large batch of review petitions filed by various states, teachers’ associations and individual teachers who had challenged the court’s earlier ruling requiring in-service teachers recruited before the enactment of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to qualify the TET. The petitioners had argued that the RTE Act and subsequent amendments could not be applied retrospectively to teachers who were appointed before TET was introduced as an essential qualification. They contended that teachers had been recruited under prevailing service rules at the relevant time and imposing TET midway through their careers amounted to changing service conditions retrospectively. Rejecting the arguments, the Supreme Court held that the statutory framework under the RTE Act clearly intended in-service teachers also to acquire prescribed minimum qualifications within a stipulated timeframe. The court observed that the law neither invalidated past appointments nor imposed immediate disqualification, but instead provided sufficient time for teachers to comply with qualification requirements. “Service of teachers cannot come at the cost of educational future of the children,” the court observed, while emphasising that the RTE Act was a child-centric legislation aimed at ensuring quality education. The bench noted that teachers had already received more than 15 years since the implementation of the RTE Act to acquire the TET qualification and said the additional three-year window granted now should be treated as final. “We make it abundantly clear that no further prayer for extension of time shall be entertained,” the court said. At the same time, the apex court acknowledged concerns raised by states that disqualification of large numbers of teachers within a short period could adversely affect school functioning and disrupt children’s education. To address the issue, the court directed states and competent authorities to conduct TET examinations periodically and preferably twice every year with an interval of around six months between examinations. The judgment is expected to impact thousands of in-service teachers across various states who are yet to clear the Teacher Eligibility Test despite continuing in service for years. The court also reiterated that a review petition could not be treated as “an appeal in disguise” unless there was a clear error apparent on the face of the record. “With the aforesaid modification of the order under review, all the petitions stand dismissed,” the bench ruled.

New Delhi, May 16: The CBSE has made the study of three languages, including at least two native Indian languages, compulsory for Class-9 students beginning July 1, according to a circular issued by the board. The move is part of the Central Board of Secondary Education's (CBSE) alignment of its Scheme of Studies with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. According to the circular issued on May 15, students opting for a foreign language may do so only as the third language after studying two native Indian languages, or as an additional fourth language. "With effect from July 1, 2026, for Class IX, the study of three languages (R1, R2, R3) shall be compulsory, with at least two languages being native Indian languages," the circular stated. The CBSE said to keep the focus on learning and reduce any undue pressure on students, no board examination shall be conducted for R3 at the Class-10 level. "All assessments for R3 shall be entirely school-based and internal. The performance of students in R3 will be duly reflected in the CBSE certificate. It is clarified that no student will be barred from appearing in the Class X Board Examinations due to R3. Sample question papers, rubrics for internal assessment will be shared by the Board shortly," it added. The board also asked schools to update their R3 language offerings for Classes 6 to 9 on the OASIS portal by June 30. Schools facing a shortage of qualified native Indian language teachers may use interim measures, such as inter-school resource sharing, virtual or hybrid teaching support, engagement of retired language teachers and qualified postgraduates, the circular said. The CBSE further said relaxations would be provided to the Children With Special Needs (CwSN) in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, while foreign students returning to India may get case-by-case exemptions from the requirement of studying two native Indian languages.

Director, Registrar hail national recognition as boost to Institute’s research ecosystem Srinagar, May 14: In a major boost to its research profile, the National Institute of Technology Srinagar has secured national recognition after its M-Tech scholar, Womika Khan, was awarded the prestigious IndiaAI Fellowship for 2025–26. Womika, a Computer Science and Engineering student, earned the fellowship for her research on “Trustworthy AI: Investigating and Mitigating Bias in Large Language Models,” conducted under the supervision of Dr. Tawseef Ayoub Shaikh. The work focuses on addressing bias in artificial intelligence systems, an area gaining urgency as AI tools are increasingly deployed in real-world decision-making. Dr Tawseef described the selection as a competitive national-level achievement, underlining the growing footprint of NIT Srinagar in advanced technology research. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, termed the achievement a milestone for the institution. “We are focused on strengthening a robust research and innovation ecosystem. Such accomplishments reinforce our position in emerging domains like artificial intelligence and motivate other students to pursue high-impact research,” he added. Institute Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said that the fellowship reflects the institute’s academic depth. “This recognition is a testament to the quality of research being carried out at NIT Srinagar. It highlights the commitment of our scholars and faculty to address complex, real-world challenges through innovation,” he said. Head of the CSE Department, Dr. Shaima Qureshi, also lauded the achievement, calling it a significant step toward building responsible AI systems. “Research in trustworthy AI, particularly in mitigating bias in large language models, is essential to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI-driven technologies. This accomplishment reflects the department’s focus on meaningful and socially relevant innovation,” she said. The IndiaAI Fellowship aims to nurture talent in artificial intelligence and strengthen India’s capabilities in next-generation technologies.

Srinagar, May 14: Several national-level scholarship and internship programmes aimed at supporting meritorious and economically weaker students have opened applications for the academic session, offering financial aid, stipends and educational assistance to students from school to postgraduate levels. Among the major schemes announced is the MynVidya: Myntra Cares Scholarship Program, which targets children of garment workers and artisans pursuing higher education in recognised universities and skill-development programmes. Selected students will receive an annual scholarship of ₹20,000 for up to three years. Applicants must have secured at least 60 per cent marks in Class 12 and belong to families earning below ₹5 lakh annually. The last date for applications is May 19. Another prominent scheme, the Dr. Rajendra Prasad Scholarship Program 2026-27, offers one-time financial assistance of up to ₹30,000 to students from economically weaker backgrounds who passed Class 10 or 12 during the 2025-26 academic session. Preference will be given to students from government schools, persons with disabilities and candidates from aspirational districts and the North-East region. Applications close on June 28. Engineering students have also been invited to apply for multiple programmes. The IET India Scholarship Award 2026 will provide scholarships worth ₹20 lakh to undergraduate engineering students from AICTE and UGC-approved institutions who have maintained strong academic records. The deadline for applications is June 15.   The D. K. Bhave Scholarship 2026, offered by Savitribai Phule Pune University, is open to engineering graduates and final-year B.E. and B.Tech students seeking admission to master's programmes abroad. The scholarship will supplement one year of master’s-level funding for selected candidates admitted to accredited universities in countries including the United States, Canada, Germany, England and Australia. Applications will close on May 30. For school and college students, the JM Sethia Merit Scholarships 2026 will provide monthly assistance of up to ₹1,000 to students from Class 9 onwards, including those enrolled in professional and postgraduate courses. The programme is open to students who have passed qualifying examinations in the current academic year with the required percentage. The application process will remain open until July 31. Meanwhile, the ICPC Internship Programme 2025 has invited applications from final-year and penultimate-year undergraduate students interested in political and policy strategy consultation. Selected interns will receive a monthly stipend of ₹5,000 along with certificates of appreciation. Applications for the internship programme will remain open throughout the year. All programmes are accepting online applications, while detailed eligibility criteria and application procedures are available through the respective scholarship portals.